According to the CDC, washing with soap and water is still the best way to prevent germs. If washing is not available, sanitizing is the next best thing but keep in mind that non-alcohol based sanitizer may not always work as well. Some forms of bacteria for instance, can become resistant to non-alcohol based sanitizers. Moreover, the alcohol concentration is also important to consider. Ideally, the formula should contain between 60% to 90% alcohol for the most effective sanitizing.